3 Reasons You Want to Write a Book in 2014

For me it’s been a passion for as long as I can remember. In fact, I can’t envision a time when I didn’t enjoy taking my thoughts and putting them down on paper. Or in today’s world, a blog.

I love sitting down with an idea and allowing that story to take on a life of its own. There’s an ebb and flow, a creative outpouring when writing that can be both cathartic, energizing and extremely rewarding.

At least that’s the way I see it and one reason why, as I etch out my 2014 goals, writing a book sits atop my to-do list.

Does it scare the crap out of me? Feel totally overwhelming? Leave me shaking in my boots wondering what in the world would ever possess me to work towards such an audacious goal?

You bet!

But more than that, it’s exciting.

Why Write a Book

Writing a book allows you to transfer your expertise, rich experience, and distinct life-lessons to something that will most assuredly outlive you.

A book becomes a living testament to all that you have learned along your journey and says, “Hey world, here’s a few things I know and thought you might appreciate.”

“When you speak, your words echo across the room. When you write, your words echo across the ages.” – Bud Gardner, Chicken Soup for the Writers Soul

Why a Book Builds Your Personal Brand

1. Authenticity, Sharing and Why it Matters in the Online World

If you are a blogger, you know the rush that comes with writing and then receiving your first comment or social share.

It’s exciting to know that your work has somehow touched someone to the point where they would take the time to engage or pass it along to their community.

A book is a way to extend that “feel good” mojo with a whole new group of people.

Think about it this way. You have the opportunity to transfer the amazing wonder that is you into a living, breathing document. It is your chance to share your authentic self and place it in front of an audience that desperately needs your insight, direction and unique perspective.

You are the gatekeeper to that information. If your voice can somehow help others to grow, prosper and live a better life, why wouldn’t you want to share that gift?

“A book is a physical souvenir, a concrete instantiation of your ideas in a physical object, something that gives your ideas substance and allows them to travel.” – Seth Godin

2. Positions You as the Go-To Expert

With the inception of the Internet, just about everyone has become a supposed expert. This makes writing a book an excellent way to establish yourself as a true authority within your field.

With a book behind it is far more likely that you will be viewed as the “go-to” expert, increasing your visibility and extending your reach.

Not only is it a platform to showcase your special skills, but also a way to share your personal story.

Just imagine what could be if you allowed yourself to work towards what ought to be.

“If you wait for inspiration to write; you’re not a writer, you’re a waiter.” – Dan Poynter

3. Increases Credibility

With increased visibility and a boost in authority comes credibility.

It can also help you gain the competitive edge in your field, positioning you as the recognized and trusted advisor within your field.

Let me ask you this…

When you are ready to make a large purchase decision within your own life, who do you look to? Someone with an established track record or someone unknown?

More than likely, it’s the person who has shown that they excel within their specialized field.

Writing a book reinforces the fact that you know your stuff.

Making the Decision

Choosing to write a book is a major decision and shouldn’t be taken lightly.

However, if writing a book is your dream, then putting it off is only prolonging the inevitable.

While I know that life can get in the way and that writing a book can easily get pushed aside, I also realize what a boon persevering and seeing your dream through can be to your business and personal brand.

Writing and publishing your book, whether it’s a huge success or simply a personal victory can make all those long nights worthwhile.

Hello Rebekah! Congrats on this goal you set, I bet your book will be a top seller! Myself well I am not ready for this one as of yet LOL I have been keeping a diary for a few years so who knows perhaps one day it will all come together, but for now I think I will just stick with blogging.

Thanks for the inspiration though it is something to think about.. Have a Very Merry Christmas! Chery :))

I think your book will be awesome…and you know I approached my books like a job, turn up and do it and that stopped me getting emotional about it and getting in my way… wish you much success and fun with it ;_

Well said Rebekah. I’ve published 8 books and mentor new authors, so I would just like to add for the benefit of anyone who’s serious about writing a book that the hardest lesson any first time author has to learn is that writing the book is the easy part. The real work begins with getting your book into the hands of enough readers to make a difference – emotionally and financially. It’s one thing to give an eBook away from a blog, and another thing entirely to jump into publishing and book marketing.

I had no idea you’d written 8 books Marquita – that is incredible! I have talked to so many people as I set out on this journey and its obvious that it’s a huge undertaking from beginning to end. Your advice is excellent!

Hi Rebekah, The idea of writing a book is scary, indeed. Many people dream but never do it. They find all kind of excuses not to write it. I am in the process of creating my first ebook and I must say there is a constant fight with such kind of thoughts. You tend to procrastinate. The book is still not perfect, I must do a little bit of supplementary research etc. I think what matters is to write the best you can and release it. The next book will always be better. So I will offer my first one… Read more »

Funny you should mention this. After finally getting the concept together in my head, that is also at the top of my list for 2014. I got the book as well, I also a great mentor who is a wonder help. Best of Luck to you as well.

Great post. I’m thinking of writing a book (a report, to be precise). Should be less than 20 pages.In the future, I could write something more comprehensive.
ION, What’s that plugin you’re using for your social media shares? I love it!

Hi Rebekah
Looking forward to seeing what gems you can provide in paper form!
I must say I am not ready for the book world yet, but perhaps an improved ebook I have already written as a how to guide. That is something I can see as a first step.
But indeed you are right. If you have a book behind you, more than the money it might bring, it shows you as an authority.

Would love to take advantage of your offer, or paying is not an issue. However ‘due to copyright restrictions, APE is not available for download to Australia, even if trying via Amazon UK.
Hope others enjoy the book, Peter